Hearing Support & Assistance for OAPs - A Guide
This guide is for older adults, in particular pensioners, who are experiencing changes in their hearing and want to learn what support is available to them. We’ll cover hearing tests, hearing aids, and assisted devices which can help with day-to-day living.
Our aim is that by the end of this guide you know what help is available to you and how to access it.
Can Pensioners still get their ears cleaned for free on the NHS?
Unfortunately, the NHS no longer routinely offers earwax removal. This change was introduced as part of a broader cost-saving measure, with earwax removal now being considered as a non-essential service.
However, if you are local to Suffolk, Ear View offers professional Microsuction ear wax removal at a small fee. It’s safe, quick, and effective with most seeing immediate improvement in their hearing clarity. You can book your appointment online here.
Read on to find out about other support and help available to those who are experiencing age-related hearing loss….
Can Pensioners get free hearing tests or ear checks?
Yes, in most cases free hearing tests are available through the NHS for pensioners, especially if you are experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss.
These services are protected under the NHS constitution and equality act 2010, which ensures that there is access to necessary healthcare to all regardless of age.
Relevant Policies
NHS Long term plan (2019) maintains importance of audiology services for older adults
GP Referral system allows access to hospital audiology departments for testing
Criteria
You must be registered with a GP
You are experiencing symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus, ear pain
Who to contact
Your GP, who can refer you to your local audiology department for a hearing test and further investigation.
Can Pensioners get free hearing aids?
Yes, in many cases. Following a hearing assessment the NHS will provide free of charge hearing aids, these are typically behind-the-ear models. However, if you are looking for a different model or something more discreet, you may need to pay for hearing aids yourself.
Relevant policies
NHS Audiology Framework ensures access to hearing aids for those with diagnosed hearing loss
Criteria
Must complete an NHS hearing test
Must have a hearing aid prescription
Age-related hearing loss is a qualifying condition
Who to contact
Your GP, who can refer you to your local audiology department for a hearing test and further investigation
Are free phones available for seniors hard of hearing?
Yes, in some cases, however these are not provided as an NHS service. There are schemes run by local councils and charities to provide amplified phones or text relay devices for seniors with hearing difficulties.
Support available through
Local councils, for example Suffolk council, offer assistance and financial support for buying assisted devices. Suffolk locals can find out more here.
RNID and other hearing charities
Local adult social support services - If you are having difficulty adjusting or dealing with hearing loss then your local adult support service may be able to help.
Criteria
Must have documented/diagnosed hearing loss
May require assessment or application, often reliant on an individual’s personal financial situation.
Who to contact
RNID Equipment Service
Local council
Local Adult Social Services
What other hearing and ear related support is available to OAPs?
Here are some additional devices and services that may be available:
TV Listening Devices – Wireless headsets or soundbars that amplify TV audio
Personal Sound Amplifiers – Small, wearable devices for occasional use
Alerting Systems – Vibrating or flashing alarms for doorbells, phones, or smoke detectors
Lipreading Classes – Offered by local councils or charities to help with communication
Tinnitus Support Groups – Peer-led groups for managing chronic ear ringing
These may be available through charities, local councils, or private providers dependent on your personal circumstances.
Useful Contacts For OAP Hearing Support…
Ear View:
Private ear wax removal and hearing support in Suffolk
Email: info@earview.co.uk
Phone: 07925651116
Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID):
National charity offering hearing tests, equipment advice, and support groups
Email: contact@rnid.org.uk
Phone: 0808 808 0123
NHS Audiology Services:
Free hearing tests and aids for eligible patients
Contact via your GP
Age UK:
Offers advice and support for older people including hearing-related services
Phone: 0800 678 1602
Telecare Choice:
Provides amplified phones and alert systems for seniors
Email: info@careline.co.uk
Phone: 0808 303 9112
Suffolk County Council:
Support and financial assistance for digital assisted technologies in Suffolk
https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/care-and-support-for-adults/help-to-stay-at-home/technology-to-help-you-live-independently
Suffolk Hearing Advisory Service:
Provides drop in centres, lip reading courses, social club, and hearing aid services
Phone: 01473 286 060
http://www.hhas.org.uk
In Summary…
Hearing loss can be a frustrating part of ageing, but there’s help out there—from free NHS services to affordable private options.
If you’re a Suffolk local and struggling with blocked ears, Ear View offers safe, affordable, and effective Microsuction ear wax removal.
Book your appointment today and take the first step toward clearer hearing.
